Transform Your Future: Why Australia’s Skilled Visa Could Be Your Best Move

So, What Is a Skilled Visa Anyway? 

If you're dreaming of starting fresh in Australia and have valuable work experience or qualifications, you may have come across something called a Skilled Visa. 

But what does that actually mean? 

Let’s break it down—plain and simple. 

First, What Is the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)? 

The Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent visa offered by the Australian Government for people with skills that are in demand. It doesn’t require a job offer, a company sponsor, or nomination from a state. You apply based on your skills, qualifications, and work experience. 

According to Australian Immigration, it’s part of their goal to bring in highly skilled workers who can contribute to the economy and fill key roles in the workforce. 

In short: if you’ve got the right skills, this could be your ticket to living and working in Australia, permanently. 

Who Can Apply? 

The Subclass 189 visa is designed for: 

• Professionals in in-demand occupations 

• People who want to live and work anywhere in Australia 

• Applicants who can meet at least 65 points on a migration points test 

• Skilled workers applying independently, without sponsorship 

This visa is particularly helpful for those who want full flexibility, without being tied to one employer or one location. 

How Does It Work? 

Here’s a simple breakdown of the process, based on official guidance from the Department of Home Affairs: 

1. Check if your job is eligible 

Your occupation must be listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List. This includes roles in healthcare, engineering, IT, education, and more. 

2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) 

You’ll register your details through Skill Select, the government’s online system. No documents are needed yet, just your information, which helps calculate your points. 

3. Score at least 65 points 

Points are based on factors like: 

• Your age 

• English language ability 

• Work experience 

• Education and qualifications 

According to Australian Immigration, meeting the minimum score makes you eligible, but higher scores increase your chance of being invited. 

4. Get an invitation to apply 

If your skills match current demands, you may receive an invitation to apply for the visa. Once invited, you’ll have 60 days to complete your full application. 

5. Submit all required documents 

This includes identity documents, English test results, a skills assessment from a relevant authority, health checks, and character clearances. 

6. Wait for a decision 

The Department will assess your application. Processing times vary, especially depending on your occupation and how complete your application is. 

As emphasized in the official Check Twice, Submit Once campaign from Australian Immigration, it’s important to get everything right the first time to avoid delays. 

What Makes the Skilled Visa So Powerful? 

According to Australian Immigration, here’s what this visa offers: 

• Permanent residency from the start 

• Freedom to live, work, or study anywhere in Australia 

• Access to public healthcare and education 

• A pathway to citizenship if eligible 

• The ability to sponsor certain family members 

It’s a visa that supports real settlement, not just temporary work. That makes it especially attractive for migrants who want long-term stability and opportunity. 

A Few Important Reminders 

• Not every job qualifies, check that your occupation is on the skilled list 

• Meeting the 65-point minimum doesn’t guarantee an invitation 

• Complete applications are processed faster, especially for critical roles like teachers and healthcare workers 

• You must have a positive skills assessment before applying 

  
  

How Legacy Migration Can Help 

We understand that the skilled visa process can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone. 

At Legacy Migration, we help skilled professionals: 

• Understand the points test 

• Check if their job qualifies 

• Submit a strong Expression of Interest 

• Prepare a complete and accurate application 

• Navigate the skills assessment process 

Our team is here to make sure you don’t miss a step and to give you the best possible shot at a successful application. 

Not sure where to start? 

Let’s chat. Book a free consultation with Legacy Migration, and we’ll help you explore your options, no pressure, just honest guidance. 

The information, updates, news, and advice provided are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalised guidance. For accurate advice regarding your specific migration case, we invite you to reach out to us directly by sending a message through this link: https://www.legacymigration.com.au/take-your-first-step-to-living-working-or-studying-in-australia

Migration Agents Registration Number: 1797357

QEAC Number: S041